Everything you need to know before your boudoir shoot

Doing a boudoir session can be a bit scary. The last thing you want to be thinking about the morning of your shoot is whether you prepped correctly. We’ve created a checklist to ensure you have everything covered before your session.

Choose your outfits. You want to make sure you have AT LEAST three options for your boudoir session.  When in doubt, bring more and we can help you narrow them down. What sort of looks work best for camera?  We suggest one classic number, like a black body suit or bra and panty set. The rest can be reflective of your taste and style. Have fun with it. If you’re having serious trouble, don’t hesitate to ask for our help.

Pumps. Unless you’re really against heels, we highly recommend bringing a pair of black and a pair of nude pumps. (Of course you can bring others, but those two options are totally safe and will work with any get up you might wear (or not…hehehe).

Accessorize. After you’ve chosen your looks, it’s time to add the finishing touches.  We love little touches of sparkle–like diamond or rhinestone earrings and delicate necklaces. Not confident with your jewelry, don’t worry, the goods you were born with will be the best accessory of all.  Plus, we have some studio options you can use as well.

Props. Adding an extra element can be a fun addition to a boudoir shoot. Whether  “teacher glasses” or poker chips, props can be a playful, personal touch.

Wax. This isn’t a must, but a well groomed bikini area is always encouraged.  Shaving is totally fine, just be sure to exfoliate to protect against ingrown hairs.

Exfoliate. Speaking of, while you’re at it, a day before your session, use a gentle exfoliator on your face. This will help remove dead skin cells for a better makeup application.

Spray Tan. Let’s face it, most of us all feel better with a healthy glow.  However, tan lines are tough to photoshop and plus, too much sun is rough on skin. We recommend a spray tan from the lovely ladies over at GlowOut salon. They’re familiar with our work and will take great care of you. Check out their FAQ page to find out exactly when to book your session(typically two days before your boudoir session) and what to do beforehand for best results

Hydrate. We can’t say this enough. Water is wonderful for helping you look and feel refreshed for your photo shoot.

Rest. As much as is possible, try to get a good night’s sleep leading up to your session. This will help you feel and look your best.  You’re going to be bending into some pretty wicked poses, some that require a bit of strength. It might sound silly, but boudoir is a lot like an intense workout, so we want you to feel energized when you arrive.

Set your Intention. Ok, so this last one is going to sound a bit new-agey, but we’re big believers in setting a positive intention before your shoot. From the moment you book!  This is a chance to celebrate who you are where you are in life.  We want you to come in feeling positive and excited for your session.  We know nerves are a part of this whole experience as well, and that’s ok. But a great attitude is the best thing you can do to create great results from this special day.

Ms. S’s Tasteful boudoir photography

A few weeks back we posted part I of Ms. S’s photos.  This week we’re sharing the rest of her images.  What so wonderful to us about taking these sort of pictures is the freedom to really explore your comfort level. Each client has their own place of empowerment.  We think Ms. S’s image are a great example of tasteful boudoir photography, with just the right amount of sensuality.  We hope she can be proud for years and years to come!

Whatever your comfort level, you’re in good hands!

As Ms. S said before her session, it took a bit for her to work up the nerve to do a boudoir session.  That’s totally normal! Whether you’re totally confident and comfortable, or a ball full of nerves, we’re here to help you relax and guide you through every step of the photo shoot.

If you’re interested in learning more, we’d love to chat!  Feel free to call us directly at 773-273-9063 or shoot us an email at info@revealed-studios.com. We can’t wait to talk with you!

 

Nude? Why going in the buff is a great idea. Fine Art Photography from Revealed Studios

Sometimes the most striking images are the simplest. No complicated setups or flashy props, just gorgeous window light and good energy. Fine art nude photography is that simple.

Throughout history, artists have relished the simplistic grace of the female form. There’s something universally striking about a stripped down figure. This real client below embraced her curves and bared it all for some tasteful fine art photography in the nude.

We marvel that every time we’ve photographed a client in the buff, something surprising happens. Suddenly they feel even more comfortable. Like the act of removing the outer garments somehow serves to peel away the last layer of fear and insecurity, leaving them feeling pleasantly exposed. Like, ‘This is me. In my birthday suit. Totally naked. And it’s ok. I’m accepted. I accept myself. I did it.”

It’s exhilarating. A bit like skinny dipping.  There’s a thrill in being a bit vulnerable. The right kinda vulnerable. The type of vulnerable that leads to growth. That leads to a sense of self acceptance. The courage it takes is a big step. It’s a big move. Bold. It’s when you step out of your comfort zone that life gets really exciting.

And that’s not even talking about the beautiful pictures that are the result of accepting yourself.  Can we acknowledge how lovely a fine art photo in the nude can be? Uninterrupted lines from head to foot, curving without distraction. It’s the most classic way to be represented in art. What a lovely opportunity to immortalize your form.

Interested in your own fine art nude photography shoot? Check out what our customers have to say in our boudoir photography reviews or how to prep for a boudoir photography shoot.

People who read this article, also read the following blog posts,

• Demi Lovatos Nude Photo Shoot
• Find your courage to be yourself, flaws and all!
• Simple and tasteful, fine art nudes with Ms. H

 

Ms. S leans in to boudoir pictures.

After thinking long and hard about doing a boudoir session, Ms. S reached out last month writing, “I’m finally brave enough to scope out the boudoir photo shoot.”

When we asked if there was a special occasion, an anniversary or birthday gift for her husband she replied, “this is more for me.”  Of course she planned to share the photos with Mr. S, but it doing something she considered self-affirming that was the main motivation for this session.

We’re proud of her and felt inspired vicariously.

Check out part one of Ms. S’s boudoir pictures. Part two coming next week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Not sure what to wear for your boudoir photos?  Stylist Emily McClaren has all your needs covered!

When it comes to deciding what to wear for boudoir photos, there are some who love the opportunity to search the websphere for getups and accessories. For others, it’s panic inducing. Suddenly they’re faced with a million-and-one questions–“Do I get the black bodysuit, or the nude? Wait, can I even pull off a bodysuit? Aren’t only celebrities like Rhianna and Lady Gaga able to wear that sort of thing. Should I google them to see?” And suddenly, they’re lost in a spiral of browser tabs and self doubt.

For those of you who can relate to the latter, good news, we have just what you need. Meet Emily McClaren-fashion aficionado. She’s got your covered. From concept to actual shopping, she’s there to help along the way.

We recently partnered up with Emily for a fun, fresh, spring model session with one of our beloved past clients. Check out our collaboration below and read about Emily’s styling process.

If you’re interested in having Emily style your session or to find out more, message us at info@revealed-studios.com or call 773-273-9063.

Step 1: Concept

[70’s inspired boudoir session]

First, I begin with finding out the vibe we are wanting to convey for the specific project. I like to start with a conversation with each client, regarding the “feel” they are looking to present for that occasion. This question helps me get into the mindset of the client. I often find that clients struggle with finding exact pieces they are looking for; it is much easier for clients to express the type of look they are going for using specific adjectives (i.e. edgy, cool or soft and sweet). It seems easier to come to a consensus when their own verbiage is used, maybe even alone with a theme (i.e. a decade or location).

Step 2: Inspiration

In addition to talking about the “feel” or look, I ask clients to share any inspiration photos they’ve collected. This further allows our visions to mesh. It’s also an easy way to determine what they like and dislike about a certain style or photo. I also ask for permission to view their social media. This helps me visualize who I am dressing, their personal style, as well as best tones and colors. [natural, low-key vibe]

3. Comfort Level

The next question is probably the most sensitive. I ask clients which (if any) areas of their body they wish to conceal more than others. I also ask if there are any looks/styles that do not suit their personal vision. I do enjoy pushing clients out of their comfort zones. I respect the vision of the client, but it is my job, especially with boudoir, to bring a client beyond the realm of everyday wear and into a little fantasy. Furthermore, it is my passion to allow clients to feel beautiful and confident in our collaboration. I do my best to find a balance between keeping them comfortable and confident.[Intimate and implied boudoir session].

Step 4: Color, Textures, & Styles

Sometimes it’s easier to determine what we hate vs. what we like when it comes to style. We all have our lists of things we would never wear and no amount of convincing is going to prove otherwise. For example, if someone hates the color pink or would never wear anything with lace, I’d do my best to avoid their dislikes. I do ask for flexibility in the collaborative process, because something that would normally make a client not choose a certain piece of clothing, might actually enhance the final look. In the end, I will always respect the feelings of the client.

Step 5: Logistics

It is my goal to respect the timeline and budget of each client. During the logistics discussion, this is where I will confirm measurements, as well as possible first fitting dates to ensure everything looks just right.

From this point on, I begin sourcing and narrowing down looks that I feel will address each component of the project. I provide multiple options from which to choose. This stage of the process can require some back and forth until we can land on the very best selection.Step 7: Final Touches

After we nail down the exact pieces the client will be wearing, we start talking about any accessorizing we wish to add to complete the look (i.e. necklaces, earrings, rings, shoes, etc.).

Ultimately, my job is to help bring a client’s vision to life. For me styling and fashion is about storytelling and showing off the very best of a client!

Ms. K was on fire for her Groom’s Gift Boudoir Photos

It is rare, but there are some women who come in for their boudoir shoot confidence a blazing. These women are like a supermoon, they just don’t come around that often. Ms. K is one such woman. She was absolutely ready to go when it came to her first look.  For most, there’s at least a 10 minute warm up period.  Like that first cocktail at the beginning of a date, this is where we’re getting to know each other a bit and loosening up.

Ms. K needed no cocktail. From the first frame she was comfortable and feeling the whole experience. There are probably a 101 reasons why she felt so relaxed, perhaps because of her amazing hair and makeup, maybe because she’d recently lost 60 pounds and felt great about her progress, or could it have been that MS. K just felt really good in her own skin and enjoyed being photographed.  Whatever the case, we want to bottle it up and create a special elixir for all our future clients (and us too) to drink before being on camera.

Bottoms up to this lady for showing us how it’s done.

 

Thoughts on a Boudoir Photoshoot from a Real Client

Our week was completely made when we read this recent boudoir Chicago photography shoot review from one of our clients. “Maggie and Kelly and my makeup artist Anjelica made me feel/look like a freaking goddess.”

YES! We say it again and again, but we realllly mean it. We want to make each and every one of our clients look better than they ever imagined and feel like a goddess. It might sound cheesy, but we’re owning it.  This is it. This is what we want and it’s pretty stinkin’ to hear our mission was accomplished.

Also, this line just needs to be acknowledged for it’s amazingness “subtle but extremely helpful direction for my posing so I didn’t look like a drunk giraffe.”

May we all never look like a drunk giraffe. Amen.

With three back-to-back children, Ms. K has been living “in the trenches,” those early years of child rearing where it feels like your status quo is survival mode. When she found out we were looking for real women models for our behind the scenes boudoir video, she emailed saying, “I am no model, but a role model to my three small children and also a working mom.”

As an all female boudoir studio, we loved the idea of providing her a self-affirming space where she could be treated to a makeover, styling by the wonderful Emily McClaren, and all our encouragement to “own the moment.”

It was an emotional revelation to see herself in these pictures. So much so she couldn’t contain her tears. She said she hadn’t felt like this woman in a long time. After years of neglecting her own needs, taking the time to tap into her sultry side was a welcome change, one we hope lasts long after the shoot.

We hear it all the time, after becoming a mom, making time to nurture yourself is always the last thing on a list of a thousand other things you have to do. It’s hard to prioritize yourself when you’re balancing the needs of your family and professional life.

Being able to provide a comfortable, supportive space for women who desperately need some TLC is a true joy. These next two blog posts feature mothers who were really nervous, but eager for the experience of being photographed at our studio. Both are working moms and both are big-time givers (i.e. Elva brought in cupcakes for us and Karen sent flowers afterwards). Each was long overdue for a little pampering and a reminder that they stillllll got it.

We understand how difficult it can be to take time for yourself, so being able to provide a little pampering and evidence of how truly beautiful they both are was a real pleasure. The experience was emotional for us all.  Yes, there were some tears shed. Ms. K’s words when she saw her pictures, “is that me?”

We hope this single afternoon provided both ladies glimpses of that sensitive, electric woman still inside them. We hope they remember her every once in awhile and walk with a little extra sway in their step.

While social media has it’s flaws, one thing we do love about it is the ability to connect to wonderful new people. Like Mara, who we met on instagram through a mutual friend’s profile.  Mara’s a lifestyle model and has worked with our beloved Tanya Renelt {check out her work} on many commercial shoots.  When we mentioned in a previous post that we were looking for new subjects for our portfolio work, Mara reached out to us.  Her positive, charming nature was apparent even virtually!

We were so happy to finally shoot with her a few weeks back.  She’s familiar with the camera, but a newbie to boudoir.  Just like all of our clients, she had the saaaaaaame concerns and trepidations about stripping to her undies.  We assured her she was in good hands and that many, many other women had felt the exact same way as her in our studio.

While Tanya fixed her up in hair and makeup, we looked over some of her inspiration pictures on pinterest.  Her boudoir board was full of approachable, natural, understated photos, with a “less is more feel.”  The white shirt and oversized, comfy sweater was a perfect choice for the results she was after.  For part two of her session, we changed her into a classic black slip, that feel elegantly off her shoulders {those pictures to come next week}.

We had sooo much fun getting to know Mara.  We knew we liked her from back and forth messages, but completely fell in love during her session.  We’re excited to feature her as a Real Woman of Revealed next week in part two, where we’ll share her amazing story of living with Epilepsy, going through four (FOUR!) brain surgeries, and doing her part to raise awareness on the topic.

Whenever a clients chooses us among alternative Chicago boudoir studios we are so grateful. Our hearts get even more full when we are able to hear about the lasting impression their session has made not only on the gift receiver but also the client as well. Last week we got a message from a past client, that completely made our day.  She’d surprised her husband post wedding with a boudoir album and wanted to share his reaction:

“Hi Maggie,

Oh my gosh _________ loved the book. He was so surprised that I would actually go and do the shoot. His very first question was, “who did this?” (meaning, was a dude taking these pics or was it a woman). Hahaha, I assured him it was two wonderfully professional boss ass women that did the photography. After that was resolved, he was even more pumped. Thanks for everything. You guys are seriously the baddest/best boss ladies out there!”
Talk about a spirit lifter. This client was such a blast to photograph. She’s a total tall drink of water with the most down-to-earth personality. My favorite point of the shoot was when she traded her high heels for her high tops. Pairing her Nike sneakers with her beloved Bulls jersey and cap for some laid back pictures highlighting her deep obsession for the Chicago basketball team.